Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the distribution of different protein types in your blood, often used to check for conditions like multiple myeloma, liver disease, or kidney problems.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal underlying health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58873-1
- Short code
- GH sp35 SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp35 SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Proteins Are Measured?
Electrophoresis separates blood proteins into fractions based on size and charge. Key bands include albumin (fast-moving), globulins (medium), and immunoglobulins (slow-moving). Abnormal patterns may indicate conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting protein levels, such as chronic kidney disease, liver disorders, or certain cancers. It can also help assess treatment responses.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma for analysis. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on the clinic’s protocol.
Test Results Interpretation
Results are compared to standard patterns. Abnormal shifts (e.g., high globulins or unusual bands) may require further testing or follow-up. Your healthcare provider will discuss findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Abnormal protein electrophoresis may reveal conditions like multiple myeloma (excess monoclonal proteins), cirrhosis (reduced albumin), or infections (increased acute-phase proteins). It’s a key diagnostic tool for systemic diseases.
A qualitative test provides yes/no or category-based answers (e.g., normal/abnormal bands) rather than exact measurements. Your doctor will interpret the pattern and correlate it with your symptoms or medical history.
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider is usually scheduled if abnormalities are detected.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy